Summer in China

  Summer in China generally begins in June and lasts until late August or early September. This season is marked by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, with noticeable differences in climate between the north and south. As the hottest time of the year, most regions in China experience rising temperatures. In southern cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, temperatures frequently surpass 30°C (86°F), while in northern cities like Beijing and Tianjin, they often exceed 25°C (77°F).

  Summer is the rainy season, particularly to the southern regions, where typhoons and heavy rainstorms are common. The middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, South China, and the southeast coastal areas see especially significant rainfall. The high humidity in the south can make the heat feel even more oppressive. 

💡 Tips for China summer travel:

  • July and August align with the summer break for Chinese students, leading to busy tourist spots as many families take vacations.
  • Pack sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing to minimize sun exposure.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to avoid heatstroke. Always carry a water bottle, especially during outdoor activities.
  • Choose lightweight, breathable clothes, and opt for light colors to reduce heat absorption.
  • Monitor weather forecasts, particularly when visiting areas prone to typhoons or heavy rain. Try to avoid traveling during severe weather.
  • Bring mosquito repellent or wear insect-repellent wristbands, especially in areas with high mosquito activity, like mountains or forests.
  • Since summer is a peak travel season, transportation and accommodation can be scarce. Book flights, train tickets, and hotels in advance to ensure smooth travel.

   Despite the heat, there are still many cool destinations and unique summer landscapes in China that are worth exploring.

💡 Top China Summer Travel destinations:

  • Qinghai Lake: Located in Qinghai Province, Qinghai Lake is China’s largest saltwater lake and one of the world’s highest lakes. Surrounded by mountains, it enjoys a cool climate with an average summer temperature of around 15°C (59°F), making it an ideal place to escape the heat. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside, enjoy the refreshing breeze, or take a boat ride to admire the scenic views.
  • Shangri-La, Yunnan: Shangri-La offers moderate temperatures and fresh air during the summer, along with a unique blend of Tibetan culture and natural beauty. Attractions like Pudacuo National Park and Songzanlin Monastery provide cool retreats where you can also immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Changbai Mountain, Jilin: Situated in eastern Jilin Province, Changbai Mountain is an active volcano known for its stunning natural scenery and temperate climate. With summer temperatures averaging between 15-20°C (59-68°F), it’s a great spot for hiking, mountain climbing, and waterfall viewing. Visitors can marvel at the volcanic landscapes, clear lakes, and waterfalls while exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Manchu and Korean ethnic groups.
  • Lhasa, Tibet: In Lhasa, the sunshine is gentle and the air is fresh. With summer temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), the climate is cool and refreshing. Lhasa is famous for its unique Tibetan cultural sites. You can visit the magnificent Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and other ancient buildings while experiencing the local customs and religious atmosphere.

Winter in China

  Winter in China typically begins in December and lasts until February of the following year. China’s northern regions, particularly in the northeast such as Harbin and Changchun, experience harsh, cold, and dry winters with temperatures often plunging below -20°C (-4°F). Even in cities like Beijing and Tianjin, the cold is significant, though the air remains relatively dry. In contrast, China’s southern cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou have milder, but more humid winters, giving them a damp, chilly feel with temperatures generally ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). While the north, especially in the northeast and northwest, often sees snow, the south rarely does, though mountainous areas like Huangshan and Lushan occasionally occur snowfall. 

💡 Tips for China winter travel:

  • Opt for warm attire, including thick coats, sweaters, and thermal layers.
  • Equip yourself with hats, scarves, gloves, and insulated, windproof boots to stay warm.
  • Bring hand warmers, hot water bottles, or other heating items for extra comfort.
  • The dry winter air can lead to skin dryness and dehydration, so stay hydrated and use moisturizers regularly.
  • Consume hearty, high-calorie foods like hotpot and stews to keep your body warm, while also ensuring a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals.

  Winter in China is perfect for enjoying activities like skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, ice skating, or unwinding in a hot spring. This season also offers the opportunity to witness breathtaking natural winter landscapes and partake in exciting events. 

💡 Best China winter travel experiences:

  • Harbin Ice and Snow Festival: Each winter, Harbin hosts a magnificent Ice and Snow Festival, featuring stunning ice and snow sculptures. Visitors can explore the Ice and Snow World and marvel at the sparkling ice sculptures lit up at night.
  • Skiing at Changbai Mountain: Known as one of China’s top ski destinations, Changbai Mountain offers excellent slopes and modern facilities. Ski enthusiasts can enjoy thrilling runs while surrounded by the mountain’s beautiful snowy landscape.
  • Jilin Rime Island: Rime Island is renowned for its ethereal rime scenery, where trees are adorned with delicate ice crystals, creating a magical winter wonderland each year as temperatures drop sharply.
  • Snowy Views at Huangshan: Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) is famous for its spectacular snow-covered peaks and unique rock formations. In winter, it becomes even more serene and mystical. Visitors can ride a cable car up the mountain to take in the breathtaking snowy vistas.

If you want to travel to China in other seasons, browse our China weather guide to plan your China trip!